GoKawiilFrance reports first human death linked to Shamonda virus in Lyon
French health authorities confirmed that a severely immunocompromised patient in Lyon died this month after contracting Shamonda virus, a pathogen previously known only to infect cattle, sheep and goats. Officials believe the person was bitten by a biting midge, the insect that normally spreads the virus among livestock, and say neurological complications before death were likely linked to the infection. The government states there is no known risk to the general public but that investigations continue.